6 Reasons Asdrubal Cabrera Should Replace Derek Jeter as Yankees’ Shortstop
August 17, 2012 · Zachary D. Rymer · Jump to comments
Article Source: Bleacher Report - New York Yankees
For a guy who was supposed to be washed up as recently as last season, Derek Jeter is having a solid year in 2012. The New York Yankees‘ ageless shortstop is hitting .320 with an MLB-high 159 hits.
It’s not all roses, though. Jeter is essentially just a singles hitter at this point in his career, and he rates as the worst defensive shortstop in baseball as far as the advanced stats are concerned (see FanGraphs).
There’s also the reality that the clock is ticking on Jeter’s career. Jeter will likely be finished as a Yankee after the 2014 season, and he could even be finished as a Yankee after 2013 if he chooses not to exercise his option (not likely).
The dilemma the Yankees are facing is that they don’t have an heir apparent for Jeter at shortstop. Since they don’t have a ton of time between now and the inevitable end of Jeter’s career to go and develop one, the best option for them is to go acquire an established shortstop from outside the organization.
How about Cleveland Indians All-Star Asdrubal Cabrera?
Jason A. Churchill of ESPN.com suggested Cabrera as a possible replacement for Jeter in an Insider post speculating on how the Yankees are going to choose to tackle the situation. Cabrera is a sensible option because he’s due to hit free agency after 2014, the same year Jeter’s career will probably come to a close.
Or the Yankees could trade for him before then and move Jeter to the outfield or third base, which is a possibility that should not be completely disregarded.
Regardless of how they acquire him, I’m on board with the idea of the Yankees eventually replacing Jeter with Cabrera. Here’s a look at a few reasons why.
Note: All stats come from Baseball-Reference.com unless otherwise noted.
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